What is science? Is science really needed? How sciences emerge? Or what is the origin of
science? So many questions and so many
confusions, let’s discuss about these question and feel proud of the answers.
In simple words knowledge of any tool, force, laws, use and anything happening in this universe or in other universe is called science. We cannot predict the origin of science but we can definitely mark the use of science at the evolution of man from their ancestor. In my opinion science had driven the evolution from old age man to modern man. Back in millions year ago when human feel unsafe in open area they used to hide in caves, for further protection they ignite fires outside the cave. They discover fire from the basic principle of science that is mark the strange incident, know about that then use that for own purpose. I hope you must know the story of fire discovery.
In this current blog we are not focusing on evolution but the use and invention of modern science in ancient India. In that time science was more close to nature than in modern days. They used the natural phenomenon and natural force to obtain the result. In ancient days in India there were Gurukulas where Teacher was called Acharya. Acharyas are the man who was expert in meditation and reading scriptures. They are like the store house with full of knowledge. They not only teach students but also learn environment with their mind open. Ancient science in India emerges in those Rishi ashrams.
I am sure that you must know the name of the first satellite of ISRO, which is Aryabhat. This name was given in the honour of one of the oldest scientist of India Aryabhat. Aryabhat was a mathematician and a curious Physicist. He gave the famous digit Zero which fills the measure gaps in number system. He was famous for his calculations of square root and cube root. He also gave the fact that earth rotates in its axis with westward direction, he not only gave the fact but clearly explained it in his book named Aryabhatia. Aryabhat also explained about the heliocentric model.
Next researcher was Brahma Gupt, his calculation were based mainly on zero and modern algebra. His multiplication, division techniques still have many uses. His calculations of lunar and solar eclipse were most accurate in those days. Aryabhat clarifies the reason behind the lunar and solar eclipse. He also stated the fact that moon and other planets emit the light of sun. Another successor of Aryabhat was Bhaskaracharya. He gave the actual structure of Zero. He wrote Mahabhaskiriya which contains 8 chapters dedicated to astronomy and planetary motion. He introduced the concept of longitude and latitude. Bhaskar II was a master of calculus, trigonometry and many mathematic concepts in ancient time. He successfully calculated the period of rotation of earth around sun that is 365.25288 days.
Here comes the discussion of Varahamihir the ancient meteorological scientist who gave the accurate information about weather prediction, climate change, rain fall, and seasonal variation etc. He also gave information about crop development, crop protection, and manufacture of perfume. These all information was properly written on the book named Brihat samhita. In the light of mathematics and astronomy another star emit abundant light, he was none other than Samant Chandra Sekhar popularly known as Pathani samant. He used to measure the height of any object with a Bamboo from a far distance. He was the first to calculate the transit of Venus. He wrote the book Sidhant Darpan. He also invented Sundial which gave the correct time at any instant of time when there is sun present.
Till the discussion we discussed about notable astronomers and famous mathematician. Acharya kanad belong to different branch of physics that is subatomic particle. Point to be noted here that his real name was not kanad but after his interest in subatomic particle his name was changed to kanad. He explained atomic structure very descriptively much before the discovery of cathode ray. He also identified proton and neutron. His Research was so accurate that on the basis of his reading he also explained the behaviour and combination of atom. His research works was not only limited to subatomic particle. He gave laws of motion which are still similar to Newton’s laws of motion.
Ancient India also contributed in Medical science such as Medicine, Ayurveda and surgeries. Acharya Charak still called as the father of Ayurveda. His results effective in recent days also, He found many tips for home remedy. His medication technique was based on leaf, root, and fruit of different plants. He wrote Charak samhita which is the most relevant book in Ayurveda till date. He was the first who emphasized on the fact Prevention is better than cure. Maharshi Shusrut is called the father of surgeries. He first developed the plastic surgery technique. He is famous at that time for plastic surgery and ophthalmic surgery. Like Charak he also wrote a book called Sushrut samhita.
Due to lack of publication, awareness and transportation in that days these priceless Research work was never unveiled in front of world. In later days the translation and re discoveries of these results were recognised by world. I may forget to mention some ancient scientists name in this blog or I left some one’s contribution so I will publish more information about this topic. Stay tuned with Hungry researcher, till then good bye.
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